Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
* Cattle: The animals being stolen.
* Duffing: This part of the word comes from the verb "to duff," which means to steal or pilfer.
So, "cattle-duffing" is essentially a more colorful and historical way of saying "cattle theft."
It's a term often used in historical fiction and Western movies to depict the lawless and dangerous aspects of life on the frontier.